Galapagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands lie on the equator 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador.  Evolved over millennia and isolated from any continental landmass, the Galapagos enjoys a completely unique bio diversity that is simply spectacular.  These actively volcanic islands host a distinct and unique flora and fauna, including prehistoric creatures found nowhere else on earth.

Thirteen primary islands, five smaller islands and numerous islets and rock formations make up part of the Ecuadorian National Park System and are a World Heritage site in their own right. This includes the world famous diving mecca of Darwin & Wolf.

Diving

Several oceanic currents meet in the island group. This has led to an abundance of marine life that has few equals anywhere in the world. The mixed temperature range underwater delivers a fascinating and rarely seen mix of tropical and temperate fish species.

Many divers are drawn to the Galapagos by the presence of large schools of rays and sharks, which are encountered year round. Various species of turtle breed in the islands, whilst endemic marine iguanas have adapted to local conditions, feeding off the sea algae that thrives in the waters that surround the islands. Inquisitive seals and penguins provide divers with unforgettably thrilling shows as they perform their aquatic acrobatic displays. Occasionally divers are afforded an encounter with some of the islands rare species like Mola Mola, flightless Cormorants and Port Jackson Sharks.

Whale Sharks and more Whales

From May to November cooler currents rich in nutrients attract many of the great pelagic plankton feeders.  During these months, The Galapagos Islands are recognised as one of the world’s best locations to encounter Whale sharks in large numbers.   Numerous species of whales are also regularly seen in the Galapagos over these months. The most common encounters are with Melon Headed, Pilot and Humpbacked whales that migrate to the coast of Ecuador in August and September. Water temperature can vary from 17 - 24 degrees C.

Manta Rays and more rays

In December to April, the waters rise slightly in temperature with shifting Oceanic currents, and in come the rays. Water temperature is a slightly warmer 21 - 26 degrees C.  Large Mantas, schools of mobula rays, cow nosed rays, spotted eagle rays and marble rays are frequent visitors.

Darwin and Wolf

These two islands are located 14 hours sailing north of the main island group. The seas surrounding Wolf and Darwin support large concentration of the marine life that makes the Galapagos the dive destination that it is. Certainly no dive itinerary to the Galapagos is complete without a visit to Darwin and Wolf. Schools of hammerheads, dolphins and rays make these islands a highlight for many divers visiting the Galapagos. The whale shark aggregation occurs in the warmer water surrounding these islands.

Hammerhead sharks and other shark species make regular appearances in numbers year round.

New regulations enforced in 2007 mean that currently only 3 dive liveaboard vessels have full, year round dive operating licences itineraries to Darwin & Wolf; Galapagos Sky, Aggressor I & Aggressor II. Other vessels presently apply for the licence on an ad-hoc temporary basis.

Above Water

Because of their isolation, most species have evolved in different ways to their mainland relatives and even within the archipelago species have developed differently. Of the extraordinary animals to be found many are reptiles, such as the great tortoise, large land iguanas, numerous lizards and three species of non-poisonous snakes.

Up to three quarters of a million seabirds flock to the islands, including a third of the world's blue footed boobies, frigate birds, pelicans, cormorants, albatross and petrels. Aside from the extraordinary marine and land borne wildlife, the islands themselves are a fascinating place to walk around, with dramatic volcanic cones and solidified lava flows. All of our itineraries include land visits on to islands, which are led by highly qualified national park guides.

Regaldive Itineraries

Regaldive can offer spaces on the Galapagos Sky and Aggressor I & II on an individual, or full charter basis.

During 2011 and 2012, we shall be offering certain dates in conjunction with a German dive tour operator partner, where we joint charter the boat for 7, and some 10 & 11 night Wolf & Darwin itineraries.

All our Galapagos Islands liveaboard departures go to Darwin & Wolf.

We encourage divers to arrive and stay on the Ecuador mainland 2 nights before travelling onto the Galapagos. You are travelling a long way on the trip of a lifetime and we want you to join your liveaboard rested and hydrated.  In addition, in case your luggage is delayed for any reason, we also recommend 2 nights.

1 night is always required in Quito or Guayaguil on the return due to international flight times.

For a map of the Galapagos Islands, please click here >

Tailormade Holidays and Twin Centres

We offer tailormade holidays for the majority of the destinations we feature, giving the option to stay for as many nights as you choose.  Although we display the prices as 7 nights, these are sample package prices; we can offer you more flexibility.

Many of the destinations featured outside of Egypt are based on flights using scheduled airlines with daily departures.  Most fly from the main London airports and some airlines also offer regional UK departures.

Our small, specialised team can also suggest twin centre options for many destinations. Please enquire about the possibilities for a given destination so you can enjoy more than one area during your holiday.  Experience contrasting diving as well as varying above water attractions.

Diving in the Galapagos - Liveaboards

The diving in Galapagos is not for novice divers.  Before attempting to dive in Galapagos you should be completely comfortable in the water and comfortable with all aspects of your equipment. Having experience of diving in cold water with a thicker wetsuit and hood, as well as experience of diving in strong currents, up currents and down currents is highly recommended.  Experience in mixed surface conditions, mixed currents and varying water temperatures, proficient use of a DSMB and the ability to cope in buddy pairs or on your own should you become temporarily separated, is imperative.

Regaldive advise that guests booking on to a Galapagos liveaboard should be minimum PADI Advanced or equivalent and have more than 50 logged dives.

Water Temperatures

The water in the Galapagos is relatively cold, ranging from 60°F - 80°F (15C- 26C) between May and November and 70°F - 82°F (20C - 26C) between December and June.  Divers are highly recommended to wear a minimum full 7 mm wetsuit or semi-dry with a hood and vest, or 5mm layers.

Visibility

The visibility in the Galapagos is often limited, due to the high nutrient content of the water.  Visibility can be as low as 4m and as high as 30m but the average is 15m.  Visibility varies between dive sites and with the time of day and can even change during a dive.  The visibility at Darwin & Wolf tends to be higher than in the Southern islands.

Diving from Pangas

Diving in the Galapagos is conducted from small boats called pangas. The currents in Galapagos are strong and so it is important the divers enter the water together as a group.

The majority of dive sites are small islands that break the surface of the water and then taper down.   Because of this, it is impossible to bring the dive yacht directly over the dive site.

Divers suit-up on the main yacht before stepping over to the panga. The panga then approaches the dive site and the divers back-roll into the water.

Diving Requirements

A mandatory check dive will be required of every diver on the first day of the charter, regardless of diving certification or experience.   Every dive in the Galapagos will be guided – this is a requirement of the Galapagos National Park.  Please note that, due to frequently strong currents, it is mandatory for each diver to carry a DSMB and small light on all dives. A method for attracting attention through noise and reflective light, plus a system such as EPIRB is highly recommended; some of these items can be hired or will be offered as part of your liveaboard.

Flight Information

Departures are based on KLM, via Amsterdam into Quito or Guayaguil.  Some regional UK departure may be available - supplement may apply.  Flights are also currently available on Iberia Airlines and Continental Airlines.

We encourage divers to arrive and stay on the Ecuador mainland 2 nights before travelling onto the Galapagos. You are travelling a long way on the trip of a lifetime and we want you to join your liveaboard rested and hydrated.  In addition, in case your luggage is delayed for any reason, we also recommend 2 nights.

1 night is always required in Quito or Guayaguil on the return due to international flight times.

Transfers: The Galapagos Islands are reached via a 90 minute flight from Quito or Guayaguil. You normally fly into San Cristobel.

Departure tax: $26 - $42 airport dependant

Internal flight luggage allowance:  20 kg, plus 7 kg hand baggage. Extra weight is charge at about $4/kilo

Passports

Entry into Ecuador requires a passport with at least 6 months validity remaining from date of return travel.

Visas

No visa is necessary for Ecuador, you will be given a 90 day tourist stamp on arrival.

Vaccinations

Vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed before departure.  For the most up to date advice please consult your travel clinic. Further information regarding vaccinations for travel to this country can be found at www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk and from your local practitioner.  There are no compulsory vaccinations for travel to the Ecuador, but we recommend protection against typhoid, tetanus, hepatitis A and polio.

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